Auxiliary SSDI Benefits: Who Is Entitled to Them?
Published on January 15th, 2024 by Web Master
If you’re receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits in Phoenix, AZ, you may also be entitled to auxiliary benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers auxiliary benefits to dependents of select SSDI beneficiaries. To learn more about these benefits and who is eligible to receive them, continue reading.
Understanding Auxiliary Benefits for SSDI
SSDI is a federal program that offers financial support to disabled workers. SSDI beneficiaries have contributed to the Social Security System by working and paying payroll taxes over the course of their life.
SSDI not only supports the primary beneficiary but can also provide extra assistance for eligible dependents, known as auxiliary or family benefits. Understanding who qualifies for these additional benefits can make a huge impact on your life and the lives of your family members.
Who Can Qualify for Auxiliary SSDI Benefits?
Dependent spouses and children of SSDI recipients may be entitled to auxiliary Social Security benefits. Under certain circumstances, even a divorced spouse might qualify.
These benefits are provided alongside the standard SSDI payments and based on the SSDI recipient’s monthly benefit amount.
Social Security Auxiliary Benefits for Spouses
A spouse is eligible to receive SSDI auxiliary benefits if they are at least 62 years old, or are caring for a child under the age of 16. They may also qualify if they’re caring for a disabled child who became disabled before age 22.
Social Security Auxiliary Benefits for Children
Children must be unmarried and under age 18, or under 19 if still enrolled in high school full-time, to qualify for auxiliary benefits. Children who become disabled before age 22 can also qualify for these benefits.
Is Every SSDI Recipient Eligible for SSA Auxiliary Benefits?
Eligibility for auxiliary benefits is contingent upon the SSDI recipient’s work history. These benefits are a percentage of their SSDI payment, which in turn is based on the payroll taxes paid during their employment. Therefore, most but not all SSDI beneficiaries will qualify for auxiliary benefits.
How Are They Calculated?
Dependents can receive up to 50% of the SSDI recipient’s monthly benefit amount. The distribution of these benefits is even among all eligible children and spouses. However, there’s a cap known as the Maximum Family Benefit (MFB) amount.
The MFB ranges from 100% to 150% of the recipient’s primary insurance amount (PIA). The MFB is considered when there are multiple dependents eligible to receive auxiliary benefits.
SSDI Legal Support in Phoenix, AZ
Navigating the SSDI process and understanding auxiliary benefits can be complicated. Our seasoned Social Security lawyers in Phoenix, AZ are ready to offer comprehensive guidance. Whether you’re applying for Arizona disability benefits or determining your family’s eligibility for auxiliary benefits, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Contact us today at Slepian Ellexson, PLLC for a free case evaluation. We’ll help you and your family understand what you can gain when you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.
